Aprilia V2 unleashed

Two versions of the much-awaited powerplant are to be released: a 450 in the SXV and slightly slower-revving 550 in the RXV.

Here's some of the Aprilia verbage on the machines: Design solutions were specially selected for maximum power and a wide power band. The sophisticated electronic engine management, developed by Aprilia Racing, introduces a number of innovations for this type of motorcycle. The fuel injection system features 38 mm throttle bodies (40 mm on the 550) and is controlled by a programmable ECU. Another market first is the fact that the SXV engine features an extended drive shaft to allow the sprocket to be placed further out. This intelligent solution allows racing tyres to be fitted without risking contact with the chain.

Reduced displacement per cylinder has permitted use of an extremely compact and lightweight single-piece crankshaft. The gyroscopic effect of the crank is therefore dramatically reduced. The engine responds instantly to throttle input, making the whole bike faster and more agile. The inertia under acceleration and deceleration typical of large bore engines has also been reduced, permitting engine speeds never before seen on this type of motorcycle. The 450 supermotard red-lines at an amazing 13,000 rpm!

Valve gear based on a single overhead cam and four titanium valves per cylinder gives the best possible compromise between compactness, light weight and performance.

Aprilia technology, of course, means more than just performance. Reliability and durability are just as important. The V2 engine sets new standards in this direction, and also guarantees beautifully easy access to all parts requiring regular service like plugs, oil filter and air filter. The SXV and RXV also boast far longer than average service intervals.

The same sort of effort has gone into weight reduction. The engine sets a new record for a V twin, even with its starter motor fitted! This has been achieved by an abundant use of super-lightweight prestige materials. The central crankcase sections, for example, are made from aluminium silicon alloy. All covers are in magnesium; the valves are in titanium; and the entire gear train has been made lighter than ever before.

The engine is specially tuned to suit the type of motorcycle. The gear ratios are also precisely calculated for supermotard use in the case of the SXV or enduro use on the RXV. Even the injection and ignition mapping have been modified to give the two engines the right character and performance for the bike; higher revving on the supermotard, smoother and torquier at low to medium revs on the enduro.

Technical specifications of the V2 engine:

Electronic fuel injection with 38 mm throttle bodies (40 mm on the 550 cc engine).

Dry sump lubrication with external oil tank. Separate lubrication for gearbox and engine ensures that the engine oil is not contaminated by clutch plate particles, and remains fully efficient for far longer. Single overhead cam, titanium valves.

Single-piece crankshaft.
Cylinders integrated in crankcase, wet liners.
Maximum engine speed 13,000 rpm (450 supermotard).
SPECIFICATIONS (550in brackets)

Engine
77¡ V twin four stroke. Liquid cooled. Single overhead cam with rocker operated exhaust valves, chain timing drive, 4 valve heads, titanium valves
Fuel
Lead-free petrol
Bore x stroke
76 x 49.5 mm (80 x 55 mm)
Total displacement
449 cc (549 cc)
Compression ratio
12.5:1 (12:1)
Fuel system
Integrated engine management system controlling ignition and fuel injection
Ignition
Throttle body: 38 mm. (40 mm)
Electronic
Starting
Electric starting
Alternator
340 W
Lubrication
Dry sump with external oil tank. Separate gearbox lubrication

Gearbox
5 speed. Enduro gear ratios:
1st 12/31
2nd 13/25
3rd 15/23
4th 19/24
5th 21/22

Clutch
Multiple discs in oil bath, cable operated
Primary drive
Spur gears. Transmission ratio: 22/56
Final drive
Chain. Transmission ratio: 15/48
Frame
Steel perimeter frame with alloy vertical members

Front suspension
¯ 45 mm upside down fork, double adjustment

Rear suspension
Box section aluminium swingarm with cast body

Brakes
Hydraulic monoshock with compression and rebound adjustment
Front: ¯ 270 mm stainless steel disc with floating caliper
Rear: ® 240 mm stainless steel disc with floating caliper

Wheels
Light alloy.
Front: 1.60 x 21"
Rear: 2.15 x 18"

Tyres
Front: 90/90 x 21"
Rear: 140/80 x 18"

Dimensions
Overall length: 2,222 mm
Overall width: 800 mm
Ground clearance: 396 mm
Seat height: 996 mm
Wheelbase: 1,495 mm

Fuel tank
Capacity 7.8 litres

Colours
Aprilia Black / Fluo Red
Launch date is said to be some time next year.